Plant nutrient preparation and delivery system

This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/341,316, filed on May 12, 2022, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein and for all purposes.

The present disclosure relates generally to a nutrient preparation system. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a plant nutrient solution preparation, mixing, balancing, and delivery system.

Currently, certain systems and devices that aim to prepare and deliver plant nutrient solutions to living plants and vegetables exist. However, the industry currently lacks an affordable nutrient system that accurately and efficiently measures, mixes, aerates, balances, and/or delivers nutrient solution that addresses the needs of both soil grown, and hydroponically grown, plants and vegetation. More specifically, some systems fail to use pumps and pump systems efficiently and/or economically. Some systems aim to work quickly, and fail to accurately mix, aerate, and/or balance nutrient solutions. Yet other systems fail to satisfy industry needs and/or expectations due to safety, accuracy, and/or consistency standards. As such, there is currently a need in the industry for a plant nutrient system that accurately and effectively measures, mixes, aerates, balances, and/or delivers nutrient solution to plants and vegetation.

At least one embodiment relates to a plant nutrition system. The plant nutrition system includes a reservoir configured to receive a fluid and a predetermined amount of nutrient and a measuring device coupled to the reservoir, where the measuring device is configured to provide the predetermined amount of nutrient to the reservoir. The plant nutrition system also includes a mixer positioned within the reservoir, where the mixer is configured to be manipulated to selectively mix the fluid and the predetermined amount of nutrient to form a nutrient solution. The plant nutrition system further includes a pump positioned within the reservoir, where the pump is configured to selectively mix the fluid and the nutrient to form the nutrient solution, and where the pump is configured to move the nutrient solution from the reservoir. The plant nutrition system also includes a chamber that houses a test kit, where the chamber is configured to receive the nutrient solution from the pump, and the test kit is configured to interact with the nutrient solution in the chamber and to provide a test result relating to the nutrient solution.

Some embodiments relate to a system. The system includes a reservoir and a controller. The reservoir is configured to receive a fluid and a predetermined amount of nutrient. The controller is configured to create a nutrient solution, using a pump and a mixer positioned within the reservoir, by mixing the fluid and the predetermined amount of the nutrient. The controller is further configured to provide the nutrient solution to a chamber having a test kit, where the chamber is configured to receive the nutrient solution from the pump, and the test kit is configured to interact with the nutrient solution in the chamber and provide a test result relating to the nutrient solution. The controller is further configured to provide the nutrient solution to at least one plant, where the nutrient solution is provided to the at least one plant with a delivery manifold.

Some embodiments relate to a kit. The kit includes a reservoir that is configured to receive a fluid and a predetermined amount of nutrient and a measuring device that is configured to couple the reservoir and provide the predetermined amount of nutrient to the reservoir. The kit further includes a mixer that is configured to be manipulated to selectively mix the fluid and the predetermined amount of nutrient to form a nutrient solution, and a pump that is configured to selectively mix the fluid and the nutrient to form the nutrient solution, and move the nutrient solution from the reservoir. The kit also includes a chamber housing a test kit, where the chamber is configured to receive the nutrient solution, and where the test kit is configured to interact with the nutrient solution and provide a test result relating to the nutrient solution.

This summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. Other aspects, inventive features, and advantages of the devices or processes described herein will become apparent in the detailed description set forth herein, taken in conjunction with the accompanying figures, wherein like reference numerals refer to like elements.

Before turning to the figures, which illustrate certain exemplary embodiments in detail, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the details or methodology set forth in the description or illustrated in the figures. It should also be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of description only and should not be regarded as limiting.

Referring generally to the figures, apparatuses, systems, and methods for preparing, mixing, balancing, and/or delivering a nutrient solution for/to plants and/or vegetation via a nutrient preparation and delivery (“NPD”) system according to one or more example embodiments are shown and described. According to an exemplary embodiment, the components of the NPD system are configured to measure, mix, balance, and/or deliver a nutrient solution to at least one plant and/or vegetation. More specifically, the NPD system is an integrated system that is configured to precisely prepare an appropriate amount of a fluid and a nutrient, adequately mix the fluid and the nutrient to form a nutrient solution, test the properties of the nutrient solution to determine whether additional preparation and/or mixing should be completed to obtain an appropriate nutrient solution (e.g., balance), and/or deliver the nutrient solution to at least one plant and/or vegetation. In this regard, the NPD system is a more efficient (e.g., cost, time, etc.) and more precise way of preparing, mixing, balancing, and/or delivering a nutrient solution compared to traditional systems. For example, the NPD system may provide a nutrient solution having a desirable saturation level, such that a predetermined percentage of the nutrient solution runs off of the plants and/or vegetation (e.g., 20%, etc.) resulting in runoff of undesirable fertilizer, salt buildup, etc. Further, the integrated NPD system reduces the risk of contamination compared to traditional systems, and allows for more accurate delivery of a nutrient solution. For example, the NPD system may distribute the nutrient solution at a rate that is consistent with a plant's and/or vegetation's growing medium (e.g., coco fiber, rockwool, hydrocoral, perlite, sand, compost, lime, peatmoss, worm castings, bat guano, etc.), such a desirable portion of the nutrient solution is runoff and/or the growing medium receives a suitable portion of the nutrient solution.

In an exemplary embodiment, the NPD system includes one or more components configured to mix the nutrient and/or nutrient solution. In some instances, mixing with hand tools (e.g., kitchen utensils, an old yardstick, etc.) can result in the solution being displaced, causing it to spill over the rim of the reservoir, which can leave a mess that is often time-consuming to clean and/or could cause damage to the surrounding surfaces (e.g., counters, floors, work benches, etc.). In an exemplary embodiment, the NPD system includes a mixing paddle that has a grate or grid design, which is configured to facilitate aeration and mixing of nutrient and/or nutrient solution. In addition, in an exemplary embodiment the design of the mixing paddle advantageously allows a nutrient solution to be quickly agitated with a minimal amount of displacement. For example, the mixing paddle's sleek framed body comprises a series of interstices, orifices, cavities, or apertures. When the paddle is plunged into a contained volume of liquid (e.g., nutrient solution), the paddle limits displacement of the fluid, thereby reducing the risk of creating a wake that spills over the sides of the container, because the mixing paddles orifices provide space for the liquid to occupy. In an exemplary embodiment, the mixing paddle of the present disclosure advantageously provides a series of orifices or apertures that break up the contents of a fluid, rather than pushing the fluid around. In this regard, with every plunge of the paddle into and out of the liquid (e.g., nutrient solution), a user introduces air to the fluid by breaking it up, thereby allowing air to be folded into the formulation.

Referring now to, a nutrient preparation and delivery system is shown, according to an exemplary embodiment. As shown in, the nutrient preparation and delivery system(herein after “NPD system”) includes a reservoir, a lid, a mixer, and a pump(as shown in at least). Further, the NPD systemmay include a chamber, a measuring device, and a delivery manifold. In some embodiments, the NPD systemincludes additional, fewer, and/or different working components. For example, the NPD systemmay also include adapters, couplers, junctions, tubing, fittings (e.g., bottom draw fitting, a bottom draw fitting for a pump, side draw fitting, etc.), fit valves, valves, sensors, timers, and/or any other suitable components configured to prepare, mix, balance, and/or deliver a nutrient solution.

As shown in, the reservoiris a container and is configured to receive (e.g., house, hold, store, etc.) a fluid and/or a nutrient from components of the NPD system(e.g., the chamber, the measuring device, etc.). According to an exemplary embodiment, the reservoiris substantially cylindrical, and is configured to receive 5 gallons (or 18.927 liters) of fluid (e.g., water, solvent, reverse osmosis water, etc.). The reservoirmay include a fill line (e.g., at an interior portion of the reservoir, at an exterior portion of the reservoir, etc.), which may indicate an appropriate amount (e.g., maximum, preferred, predetermined, etc.) of fluid to be received by the reservoir. In some embodiments, the reservoirreceives the fluid and the nutrient from the same, or different, components of the NPD system(e.g., the chamber, the measuring device, etc.), simultaneously, in series, at predetermined times, and/or at any other suitable time interval. In some embodiments, the reservoiris configured to receive a fluid having predetermined characteristics (e.g., a pre-adjusted pH level based on known nutrients that will be added to the fluid, etc.). In some embodiments, the reservoiris another suitable shape (e.g., a cube, rectangular prism, ovate, elliptical, etc.), and/or is configured to receive another suitable amount of fluid and/or nutrient (e.g., 1, 2.5, 10, 15, 25, 50, 55, 100, etc. gallons). The reservoirmay be formed of any suitable material (e.g., plastic, metal, a combination thereof, etc.), and/or may be configured to interact with a cleaning solution (e.g., sanitizing solution, chlorine, bleach, etc.). In some embodiments, the NPD systemincludes one or more reservoirs(e.g., 1, 2, 5, 10, etc.), which may be in fluid communication with other components of the NPD system(e.g., another reservoir, etc.). For example, the NPD systemmay include a first reservoirpositioned proximate to (e.g., on top of, aside, etc.) a second reservoir, where the first reservoirconfigured to receive a fluid and/or a nutrient from components of the NPD system(e.g., the second reservoir), and/or provide the fluid and/or nutrient to the second reservoir(e.g., via gravity, a pump, etc.). In this regard, the NPD systemmay include one or more reservoirs(e.g., a first reservoir, a second reservoir, etc.) configured to move (e.g., circulate, pump, etc.) a fluid and/or a nutrient through components of the NPD system.

The lidmay be coupled to a top portion of the reservoir, and may be configured to form a liquid-tight seal between components of the NPD system(e.g., the reservoir, the lid, the mixer, the chamber, the measuring device, etc.). In an exemplary embodiment, the lidis further configured to couple to components of the NPD system, so as to support and/or integrate components of the NPD system. For example, the lidmay be coupled to the mixer, the chamber, the measuring device, and/or the delivery manifold(e.g., as shown in at least), so as to position/orient components of the NPD systemrelative to the lid, the reservoir, etc., and/or integrate the components of the NPD systemas a uniform system. As shown in, the lidis substantially circular so as to adequately couple to a top portion of the reservoir; however, in some embodiments, the lidis another suitable shape (e.g., substantially square, rectangular, oval, elliptical, etc.), size, and/or configuration (e.g., formed of plastic, metal, etc., includes seals, gaskets, etc., and/or any combination thereof). In some embodiments, the NPD systemdoes not include the lid. In this regard, the chamber, the measuring device, and/or the delivery manifoldmay be coupled to the reservoir(e.g., an edge, rim, interior wall, exterior wall, etc.), such that the reservoirsupports and/or integrates components of the NPD systemas a uniform system.

As shown in at least, the mixeris coupled to the lid, and is configured to be manipulated so as to selectively mix (e.g., amalgamate, aerate, move, stir, etc.) the fluid and/or nutrient within the reservoir. As will be discussed in greater detail below (e.g., see), the mixermay be a spring-loaded paddle, and may include components that are configured to mix the fluid and/or the nutrient to form a nutrient solution within the reservoir. For example, the mixermay include a base coupled to the lid, and a grated paddle coupled to the base and positioned within the reservoir. The mixermay also include other components, for example a handle, housing, spring, rod, protective sleeve, textured interface, etc., and may be manipulated so as to reposition the paddle within the reservoirto mix the fluid and/or nutrient within the reservoir. In some embodiments, the mixeris another suitable mixing device (e.g., beater, whisk, paddle, pump, etc.) configured to mix the fluid and/or nutrient within the reservoir. In some embodiments, the mixeris integrated and/or otherwise configured within the NPD system. In this regard, the mixermay be configured to be manually manipulated free of the lid(e.g. as a non-spring loaded paddle, etc.), and/or automatically manipulated (e.g., via an actuator, motor, etc.), so as to mix the fluid and/or the nutrient to form a nutrient solution within the reservoir.

The pumpmay be positioned within the reservoir, and may be configured to move a fluid, nutrient, and/or a nutrient solution from the reservoirto other components of the NPD system(e.g., the chamber, the delivery manifold, tubing, etc.). As will be discussed in greater detail below with regard to, the pumpmay be a liquid transfer pump, and may be positioned at a bottom portion of the reservoirso as to move fluid, nutrient, and/or a nutrient solution from a bottom portion of the reservoirto other components of the NPD system. For example, the pumpmay be configured to move a nutrient solution from a bottom portion of the reservoirto the chamber(e.g., for testing, etc.), the delivery manifold(e.g., to be delivered to a plant or a vegetation, etc.), and/or another component of the NPD system. In some embodiments, the pumpis also configured to selectively mix (e.g., amalgamate, move, stir, etc.) the fluid and/or nutrient within the reservoir, so as to form a nutrient solution. In this regard, the pumpand/or the mixermay be configured to suitably mix (e.g., amalgamate, aerate, move, etc.) the fluid and/or the nutrient to form a nutrient solution within the reservoir, and the pumpmay be configured to move the nutrient solution to other components of the NPD system. In some embodiments, the NPD systemincludes a plurality of pumps. For example, the NPD systemmay include a pumpconfigured to recirculate nutrient solution to the reservoir(e.g., for mixing, from another reservoir, etc.), a pumpconfigured to move nutrient solution to the measuring deviceand/or measuring devices (e.g., for rinsing), a pump configured to move nutrient solution to the chamber(e.g., for testing), and/or a pumpconfigured to move nutrient solution to the delivery manifold(e.g., for delivery to a plant and/or vegetation). As discussed above, in some embodiments the NPD systemincludes one or more reservoirs, which may include one or more pumps. For example, a first reservoirmay be configured to receive a fluid and/or a nutrient and provide the fluid and/or nutrient to a second reservoir(e.g., via gravity, the pump, etc.), and a second reservoirmay be configured to selectively mix the fluid and/or nutrient (e.g., via the pump) and/or provide the fluid to components of the NPD system(e.g., the first reservoir, the chamber, the delivery manifold, etc.). In some embodiments, the pumpis otherwise configured and/or positioned relative to components of the NPD system, for example, the pumpmay be configured as an inline pump and/or may be positioned outside the reservoir.

As shown in at least, the chamberis a container coupled to the lid, and is configured to receive a fluid and/or a nutrient solution (e.g., via the pump). According to an exemplary embodiment, the chamberis a unified chamber (e.g., a unified body); however, in some embodiments the chamberincludes a plurality of chamber portions (e.g., an outer chamber, an inner chamber, a first chamber portion, a second chamber portion, etc.), which are in fluid communication with one another. In an exemplary embodiment, the chamberis also configured to house (e.g., hold, support, include, etc.) a test kit. As will be discussed in greater detail below with regard to, the chambermay be configured to receive a nutrient solution from a bottom portion of the reservoir(e.g., via the pump), and house a portion of the nutrient solution to interact with the test kit. In this regard, the test kit may interact with the nutrient solution to provide a test result (and/or a plurality of test results), for example a potential of Hydrogen (pH) reading, an electrical conductivity (EC) reading, a total dissolved solids (TDS) reading, a temperature of the nutrient solution, etc. of the nutrient solution. Given that the nutrient solution is provided from a bottom portion of the reservoir, the test results relating to the nutrient solution may be more accurate compared to traditional systems. Also in an exemplary embodiment, the chamberincludes additional components (e.g. an aperture, coupling, grommet, fitting, etc.), and the chamberis further configured to provide (e.g., return, circulate, move, etc.) a portion of the nutrient solution to the reservoir(e.g., for further mixing, amalgamating, recirculating, etc.). In some embodiments, the chamberis integrated and/or otherwise configured relative to components of the NPD system. For example, the chambermay be coupled to the reservoir(e.g., an edge, rim, interior wall, exterior wall, etc.) and/or positioned so as to receive a fluid and/or a nutrient solution (e.g., via gravity from a first reservoir, via pressure from a second reservoir, via a pump of a first or second reservoir, etc.).

As shown in at least, the measuring deviceis coupled to the lid, and is configured to receive a fluid and/or nutrient, and/or selectively provide the fluid and/or nutrient to the reservoir. As will be discussed in greater detail below with regard to, the measuring devicemay include components that are configured to receive a predetermined amount of fluid and/or nutrient (e.g., from a user, an external device, etc.), and selectively provide the fluid and/or nutrient to the reservoir(e.g., for mixing, amalgamating, measuring, etc.). For example, the measuring devicemay include a measuring base, a receiver, a grommet, a measuring valve, a measuring tube, a deliverer, a rinse device, etc., which may receive a nutrient and/or selectively provide the nutrient to the reservoir(e.g., for mixing). In some embodiments, the NPD systemincludes a plurality of measuring devices. For example, the NPD systemmay include a first measuring deviceconfigured to receive a first nutrient concentrate, a second measuring deviceconfigured to receive a second nutrient concentrate, a third measuring deviceconfigured to receive a third nutrient concentrate, etc. In this regard, the NPD systemmay include a plurality of measuring devicesconfigured to provide (e.g., via a timer, sensor, etc.) a plurality of fluid and/or nutrients to the reservoir. In some embodiments, the measuring deviceis another suitable measuring device, and/or includes components (e.g., a scale, sensor, timer, actuator, motor, etc.) that are configured to receive and/or provide a fluid and/or a nutrient to the reservoir. In some embodiments, the measuring deviceis integrated and/or otherwise configured relative to components of the NPD system. For example, the measuring devicemay be coupled to the reservoir(e.g., an edge, rim, interior wall, exterior wall, etc. of a first reservoir, etc.) and/or positioned so as to receive a fluid and/or a nutrient, and/or selectively provide the fluid and/or nutrient to components of the NPD system(e.g., to a first reservoirto be housed, which may provide the fluid and/or nutrient to a second reservoirfor mixing, etc.).

As shown in at least, the delivery manifoldis coupled to the lid, and is configured to receive a fluid and/or nutrient solution from the reservoirand/or provide the fluid and/or nutrient solution to other components of the NPD system. In an exemplary embodiment, the delivery manifoldis configured to receive a nutrient solution from the reservoir(e.g., via the pump), and/or provide the nutrient solution to at least one plant. As will be discussed in greater detail below with regard to, the delivery manifoldmay include additional components, for example at least one port that is coupled to at least one nutrient tube (e.g., shown as nutrient tube). The nutrient tubemay be coupled to the delivery manifold(e.g., a port, coupling, etc.) at a first end and at least one plant (e.g., shown as plant) at a second end, and may be configured to move the nutrient solution from the delivery manifoldto the plant. In some embodiments, the nutrient tubeis secured to a plant housing (e.g., shown as plant container) via a fastener (e.g., shown as stake), so as to provide the nutrient solution to a specific portion of the plant(e.g., the root base, the root zones, the plant base, etc.). In some embodiments, the delivery manifoldincludes additional, fewer, and/or different functional components, for example an adapter, couplers, valves, tubing, timers, sensors, etc. In some embodiments, the delivery manifoldis integrated and/or otherwise configured relative to components of the NPD system. For example, the delivery manifoldmay be coupled to the reservoir(e.g., an edge, rim, interior wall, exterior wall, etc.) and/or positioned so as to receive a fluid and/or a nutrient solution from the reservoir(e.g., via gravity, pressure, etc.), and/or otherwise provide the fluid and/or nutrient solution to other components of the NPD system(e.g., via gravity, pressure, etc.).

As an illustrative example, the components of the NPD systemof at leastmay be configured to prepare, mix, balance, and/or deliver a nutrient solution to at least one plant and/or vegetation. For example, the reservoirmay receive a fluid (e.g., water, solvent, etc.), for example by removing the lid, via the measuring device, a fluid reservoir, etc. The appropriate amount of the fluid to be received may be indicated by a fill line of the reservoir, a recipe, a predetermined amount, and/or any other suitable measuring mechanism. In some embodiments, the lidis then coupled to a top portion of the reservoir, so as to create a liquid-tight seal between components of the NPD system(e.g., the lid, the reservoir, the mixer, the chamber, etc.), and/or integrate the components of the NPD system.

After the reservoirreceives the fluid, the measuring devicemay receive a nutrient (e.g., a nutrient concentrate, etc.). The appropriate amount of the nutrient may be indicated by a measuring line, a recipe, a predetermined amount, and/or any other suitable measuring mechanism. According to an exemplary embodiment, after the measuring devicereceives the nutrient, the measuring devicemay provide the nutrient to the reservoir(e.g., via a tube, drain, valve, etc.). In some embodiments, once the measuring deviceprovides the nutrient to the reservoir, components of the measuring deviceare cleaned (e.g., via a rinse device, a rinse tube, water, sanitizing fluid, etc.), so as to remove excess nutrient from the measuring device, and provide a more accurate amount of nutrient to the reservoir. In some embodiments, the measuring devicemay be configured to receive a plurality of nutrients (e.g., in series, at a predetermined time, etc.), and provide the plurality of nutrients to the reservoir(e.g., for mixing, etc.).

Once the reservoirreceives the fluid and the nutrient, components of the NPD systemmay mix (e.g., amalgamate, aerate, move, stir, etc.) the fluid and the nutrient to form a nutrient solution. For example, the mixermay be manipulated, so as to selectively mix the fluid and the nutrient to form the nutrient solution. In an exemplary embodiment, the mixeris a spring-loaded paddle, which includes a paddle that is configured to be manipulated (e.g., vertically reposition up/down) so as to adequately mix (e.g., amalgamate, aerate, etc.) the fluid and the nutrient. In some embodiments, the pumpis also activated (e.g., powered, driven, turned on, etc.), so as to selectively mix the fluid and the nutrient to form the nutrient solution.

After the fluid and the nutrient are mixed, the pumpmay move the nutrient solution from the reservoirto other components of the NPD system. For example, the pumpmay be positioned at a bottom portion of the reservoir, and may be configured to move the nutrient solution from a bottom portion of the reservoirto the chamber(e.g., through a bottom draw fitting on the pump, etc.). The chambermay include a test kit that is configured to interact with the nutrient solution, so as to provide a test result (and/or a plurality of test results) relating to the nutrient solution (e.g., a single, dynamic, continuous, etc. pH reading, an EC reading, a TDS reading, a temperature, etc. of the nutrient solution). In some embodiments, the chamberis also configured to provide (e.g., return, circulate, etc.) the nutrient solution to the reservoir(e.g., via an aperture, coupling, fitting, etc. in the chamber, etc.), for example to further mix the nutrient solution, recirculate the nutrient solution to the chamber, and/or permit for additional testing relating to the nutrient solution.

Once the test results of the nutrient solution provide an appropriate result (e.g., preferred, suitable, within a predetermined range, etc. for pH reading, EC reading, TDS reading, temperature, etc.), the pumpmay move the nutrient solution to the delivery manifold. In this regard, the pumpmay be de-coupled (e.g., disconnected, etc.) from the chamber, and coupled (e.g., connected, etc.) to the delivery manifold. As discussed above, in some embodiments the NPD systemincludes a plurality of pumps, and another pump(e.g., similar to the pump) is coupled to the delivery manifoldand/or configured to move the nutrient solution to the delivery manifold. The delivery manifoldmay then receive the nutrient solution from the pump, and provide the nutrient solution to at least one plant or vegetation. For example, the delivery manifoldmay be coupled to at least one tube (e.g., nutrient tube), which is coupled to the delivery manifoldat a first end and at least one plant (e.g., plant) at a second end. In this regard, the nutrient tubemay be configured to facilitate movement of the nutrient solution from the delivery manifoldto the at least one plant. As such, the components of the NPD systemmay be configured to accurately prepare, mix, balance, and/or deliver a nutrient solution to at least one plant and/or vegetation. The components of the NPD systemare described in further detail below.

Referring now to, views of a nutrient preparation and delivery system is shown, according to an exemplary embodiment. In an exemplary embodiment, the nutrient preparation and delivery system is the NPD systemof. As discussed above, the NPD systemincludes the reservoir, the lid, the mixer, the pump, the chamber, the measuring device, and the delivery manifold. As shown in, and as will be discussed in further detail below, the NPD systemalso includes additional components that are configured to prepare, mix, balance, and/or deliver a nutrient solution.

As shown in, the reservoirincludes a plurality of fill lines. In an exemplary embodiment, the reservoirincludes first fill lines(e.g., gallon fill lines, etc.) and second fill lines(e.g., liter fill lines, etc.). The first fill linesand/or the second fill linesmay be spaced so as to indicate incremental measurements, and may be positioned at any suitable location at the reservoir(e.g., at an interior portion, an exterior portion, both an interior portion and an exterior portion, etc.). Further, the first fill linesand/or the second fill linesmay be configured to indicate an appropriate amount (e.g., maximum, preferred, current amount, predetermined, etc.) of fluid and/or nutrient solution within the reservoir. In some embodiments, the reservoirincludes additional, fewer, and/or different components. For example, in some embodiments the reservoirincludes strengthening components (e.g., bars, beams, strengthening members, etc.) along the walls of the reservoir, along a base of the reservoir, etc., which are configured to increase the integrity of the reservoir.

In an exemplary embodiment, the pumpis a liquid transfer pump (e.g., electric water pump, etc.), and is positioned at a bottom portion of the reservoir(e.g., as shown in at least). As discussed above, the pumpmay be configured to move fluid and/or nutrient solution from a bottom portion of the reservoirto other components of the NPD system(e.g., the chamber, the delivery manifold, etc.). The pumpmay have a suitable gallon-per-hour and/or gallon-per-minute rating (e.g., 25, 50, 150, 250, 350, 396, 400, 450, etc. gallon-per-hour rating, etc.), so as to provide enough power to move fluid and/or nutrient solution from the reservoirto other components of the NPD system(e.g., the chamber, the delivery manifold, a plant and/or vegetation, any combination thereof, etc.). According to an exemplary embodiment, the pumpis configured to move (e.g., deliver) the nutrient solution to a plant and/or vegetation at a consistent rate, as discussed herein. In some embodiments, the power requirements of the pumpmay depend on other characteristics of components of the NPD system. For example, the characteristics of the pumpmay depend on the size of the reservoir, the contents of the nutrient solution, the characteristics of tubing and/or valves of the NPD system(e.g., open valves, closed valves, partially open valves, etc.), the characteristics of the delivery manifold(e.g., 5, 8, 10, 15, 20 or more delivery ports, etc.), the characteristics of a plant and/or vegetation (e.g., based on the size of the container, stage of growth, intensity of light, canopy or leaf surface temperature, air circulation and/or movement, ambient air temperature, humidity, other environmental factors, etc.), and/or another suitable characteristics of the NPD system.

Also according to an exemplary embodiment, the pumpis configured to selectively mix (e.g., amalgamate, aerate, move, stir, circulate, etc.) the fluid and/or nutrient within the reservoir, so as to form a nutrient solution. In some embodiments, the pumpis another suitable pump (e.g., an in-line pump, a centrifugal pump, a plunger or piston pump, a circumferential-piston pump, a diaphragm and bellows pump, a gear pump, a lobed pump, a flexible-vane pump, a peristaltic pump, a non-submersible pump, etc.), and/or is positioned at another suitable location of the reservoir(e.g., along a sidewall portion, at a middle portion, suspended within a fluid and/or nutrient solution, non-submersed in a fluid and/or nutrient solution, non-submersed in a fluid and/or nutrient solution and/or positioned outside the reservoir, etc.). In this regard, in some embodiments the pumpis configured to move/mix fluid and/or nutrient solution from/at another portion of the reservoir(e.g., a sidewall, a middle portion, within a nutrient solution, outside a nutrient solution, etc.).

As shown in, the pumpalso includes a power connector, which is configured to extend outside the reservoirand activate/deactivate the pump. In an exemplary embodiment, the power connectoris coupled to the pumpat a first end, and is configured to selectively couple to a power source (e.g., an outlet, battery, generator, etc.) at a second end. In an exemplary embodiment, the power connectorincludes an on/off switch, which is configured to activate/deactivate the pump. In this regard, when the power connectoris coupled to a power source, the power connectormay selectively activate/deactivate (e.g., power, drive, turn on, etc.) the pumpso as to move/stop fluid and/or nutrient solution flow from the reservoir. In some embodiments, the power connector(and/or the pump) also includes a timer, sensor, electric pin, and/or another suitable actuating device, which allows the pump(and/or the power connector) to be activated/deactivate at an appropriate (e.g., desired, predetermined, scheduled, etc.) time.

As shown in, the measuring devicefurther includes a measuring base, a receiver (e.g., shown as funnel), a grommet, a measuring valve, and a measuring tube. According to an exemplary embodiment, the measuring baseis a container and is configured to receive (e.g., house, hold, etc.) a fluid (e.g., water, solvent, etc.) and/or a nutrient (e.g., a nutrient concentrate, etc.). In an exemplary embodiment, the measuring baseis substantially cylindrical, and is configured to receive any suitable amount of fluid and/or nutrient (e.g., 0.5 ml, 1 ml, 2 ml, 4 ml, 6 ml, 8 ml, 10 ml, 15 ml, 25 ml, 50 ml, 100 ml, etc.). The measuring basemay be formed of any suitable material (e.g., plastic, metal, etc.), and/or may be transparent or any suitable color. Further, the measuring basemay include measuring lines, which may indicate the appropriate (e.g., preferred, desired, predetermined, etc.) amount of the fluid and/or the nutrient to be received by the measuring device(e.g., as shown in at least). In some embodiments, the measuring baseis another suitable shape (e.g., a cube, rectangular prism, etc.), size, and/or configuration.

The funnelmay be coupled to a top portion of the measuring base(e.g., via the grommet, etc.), and may be configured to facilitate movement of fluid and/or nutrient to the measuring base. Although the funnelis shown as a funnel in, it should be understood that the funnelmay be any suitable receiving device configured to facilitate movement of fluid and/or nutrient to the measuring base(e.g., a cup, plunger, syringe, etc.). The measuring valvemay be coupled to a bottom portion of the measuring base, and may be configured to control (e.g., permit, limit, restrict, prevent, etc.) movement of the fluid and/or nutrient from the measuring baseto other components of the NPD system. In an exemplary embodiment, the measuring valveis an inline ball valve (e.g., with open/close configurations, etc.), and is configured to control movement of the fluid and/or nutrient from the measuring baseto the measuring tube. In some embodiments, the measuring valveis another suitable valve (e.g., solenoid valve, globe valve, gate valve, plug valve, butterfly valve, etc.) configured to control movement of the fluid and/or nutrient. In yet some embodiments, the measuring valveincludes a timer, sensor, electric pin, on/off switch, and/or another suitable actuating device, which allows the measuring valveto control movement of the fluid and/or nutrient at an appropriate (e.g., desired, predetermined, scheduled, etc.) time.

As shown in, the measuring tubeis coupled to the measuring valveat a first end, and is configured to facilitate movement of the fluid and/or the nutrient from the measuring deviceto the reservoir. In some embodiments, the measuring devicefurther includes a deliverer. The deliverermay be coupled to the measuring tubeand the lid, and may be configured to facilitate movement of the fluid and/or the nutrient from the measuring device(e.g., the measuring tube) to the reservoir(e.g., via an aperture, in the lid, the chamber, a combination thereof, etc.). Although the delivereris shown as a funnel in, it should be understood that the deliverermay be any suitable delivery device configured to facilitate movement of fluid and/or nutrient from the measuring deviceto the reservoir. In some embodiments, the measuring devicedoes not include the deliverer; rather, the measuring tubeis coupled to the measuring valveat a first end and the lidat a second end. In this regard, the measuring tubemay be configured to facilitate movement of fluid and/or nutrient directly from the measuring device(e.g., the measuring valve, the measuring base, etc.) to the reservoir(e.g., via the aperture, in the lid, the chamber, a combination thereof, etc.).

According to the exemplary embodiment shown in, the measuring devicealso includes a rinse device. The rinse devicemay include a rinse housing, a rinse tube, a rinse valve, and a support arm. According to an exemplary embodiment, the rinse deviceis coupled to components of the NPD system(e.g., the lid, the mixer, etc.), and is configured to clean (e.g., rinse, sanitize, etc.) other components of the measuring device(e.g., the measuring base, the funnel, etc.) and/or the NPD system. For example, when undiluted nutrient concentrates combine (e.g., at the funnel, the measuring base, the measuring tube, etc.) the concentrates form precipitates. These precipitates may bind to components of the measuring device(e.g., the measuring base, the funnel, etc.), bind to portions of the reservoir, become suspended in a nutrient solution, and/or become unavailable for uptake, etc. As such, the rinse devicemay be configured to rinse components of the NPD system, so as to avoid precipitate formation, to prevent melding of concentrates and solution suspension, to avoid interactions that cause nutrient lock-out, to curtail nutrient solution formulation deficiencies, and/or any other issues associated with precipitate formation. In this regard, the rinse devicemay be configured to rinse components of the NPD systemso as to permit more efficient and/or effective addition of nutrient concentrates (e.g., a single nutrient concentrate, sequential addition of several nutrient concentrates, etc.).

As shown in, the rinse housingis coupled to the rinse tubeand the support arm, and is configured to position/orient the rinse tuberelative to components of the NPD system. In an exemplary embodiment, the support armis an elongated structure that is coupled to the lidat a first end and the rinse housingat a second end (and/or the funnel, etc.), and is configured to position/orient the rinse housingand/or the rinse tube. In this regard, the support armand/or the rinse housingis/are configured to position/orient the rinse tubeat (e.g., adjacent to, above, coupled with, etc.) the funnel. As discussed above, in some embodiments, the support armcoupled to another component of the NPD system, for example the reservoir(e.g., an edge, rim, interior wall, exterior wall, etc.).

The rinse tubemay be of any suitable shape, size, and/or formed of any suitable material, and may be configured to facilitate movement of a fluid (e.g., water, cleaning solution, etc.) between components of the NPD system. As will be discussed in greater detail below, in an exemplary embodiment the rinse tubeis coupled to the rinse housingat a first end, and other tubing of the NPD systemat a second end. In this regard, the rinse tubemay facilitate movement of a fluid (e.g., water, etc.) from the reservoir(e.g., via other tubing) to the funnel, so as to remove (e.g., rinse, etc.) excess fluid and/or nutrient from the funnel(and/or the measuring base, the measuring valve, the measuring tube, etc.). The rinse tubemay also be coupled to the mixer(e.g., a mixer housing, etc.) and/or other components of the NPD systemat a middle portion, for example to position, orient, provide additional support to, etc. the rinse tube. In some embodiments, the rinse tubeis coupled to a cleaning device (e.g., a cleaning pouch, a cleaning reservoir, an exterior cleaning apparatus, etc.), and is configured to facilitate movement of a cleaning solution (e.g., water, cleaning solution, sanitizing fluid, etc.) from the cleaning device to the funnel, so as to remove excess fluid and/or nutrient from components of the measuring device(e.g., to avoid precipitate formation, prevent melding of concentrates and solution suspension, to avoid interactions that cause nutrient lock-out, to curtail nutrient solution formulation deficiencies, etc.).

As shown in, the rinse tubeis also coupled to the rinse valve, which is configured to control (e.g., permit, limit, restrict, prevent, etc.) movement of fluid within the rinse tube. In this regard, the rinse valvemay control movement of fluid (e.g., water, cleaning fluid, etc.) from the reservoir(and/or a cleaning device) to components of the measuring device(e.g., the funnel, the measuring base, etc.), so as to permit removal of excess fluid and/or nutrient from the measuring device. Similar to the measuring valve, in an exemplary embodiment the rinse valveis an inline ball valve; however, in some embodiments the rinse valveis another suitable valve (e.g., solenoid valve, etc.). Further, in some embodiments, the rinse valveincludes a timer, sensor, electric pin, on/off switch, and/or another suitable actuating device, to allow the rinse valveto control movement of the fluid at an appropriate (e.g., desired, predetermined, scheduled, etc.) time.

Referring still to, the NPD systemalso includes additional components that are configured to facilitate preparing, mixing, balancing, and/or delivering a nutrient solution. According to an exemplary embodiment, the pumpis coupled to tubing (e.g., shown as pump tube), which is configured to facilitate movement of fluid, nutrient, and/or nutrient solution from the reservoir(e.g., via the pump) to other components of the NPD system. Similar to the tubing discussed above, the pump tubemay be of any suitable shape, size, and/or formed of any suitable material. As shown in, the pump tubeis coupled to the pumpat a first end and a junction (e.g., shown as junction) at a second end. In an exemplary embodiment, the junctionis a “tee” style fitting, and is configured to direct fluid and/or nutrient solution in a first direction and/or a second direction. In some embodiments, the junctionis another suitable fitting style (e.g., elbow, cross, wye, diverter tee, etc.), and/or is configured to direct fluid and/or nutrient solution in any suitable direction(s).

As shown in, the junctionis coupled to tubing (e.g., shown as control tubing), which is configured to facilitate movement of fluid and/or nutrient solution from the junctionto other components of the NPD system. In an exemplary embodiment, the control tubingincludes a plurality of tubing sections. The plurality of tubing sections (e.g., of the control tubing) may be coupled to the junctionat first ends, and valves configured to control the movement of fluid and/or nutrient solution within the NPD systemat second ends. For example, a first section of the control tubingmay be coupled to the junctionat a first end and a reservoir valveat a second end. In addition, a second section of the control tubingmay be coupled to the junctionat a first end, and a delivery valveat a second end. Similar to the other valves discussed above, in an exemplary embodiment the reservoir valveand/or the delivery valveis/are inline ball valve(s); however, in some embodiments, the reservoir valveand/or the delivery valveis/are another suitable valve (e.g., solenoid valve, etc.). Moreover, like the other valves discussed above, the reservoir valveand/or the delivery valvemay further include a timer, sensor, electric pin, on/off switch, and/or another suitable actuating device, to allow the valves to control movement of the fluid and/or nutrient solution at an appropriate time. According to an exemplary embodiment, the control tubingis also coupled to the rinse tube(e.g., via a tube piercing, junction, fitting, etc. shown as tube coupler). In this regard, the control tubingmay also permit movement of a fluid and/or nutrient solution from the reservoir(e.g., via the pump, through the junction, etc.) to the rinse tube(e.g., through the tube coupler) and/or other components of the rinse device.

As shown in, the reservoir valveis coupled to additional tubing (e.g., shown as reservoir tube) and the delivery valveis also coupled to additional tubing (e.g., shown as delivery tube). Similar to the other tubing discussed above, the reservoir tubeand the delivery tubemay be of any suitable size, shape and/or material, and may be configured to facilitate movement of fluid and/or nutrient solution from the valves (e.g., the reservoir valve, the delivery valve, etc.) to other components of the NPD system. According to an exemplary embodiment, the reservoir tubeis coupled to the reservoir valveat a first end, and the reservoirat a second end. In this regard, the reservoir tubemay be configured to facilitate movement of fluid and/or nutrient solution from the reservoir valveto the reservoir(e.g., to return, circulate, mix, etc. fluid and/or nutrient solution to/in the reservoir, etc.).

As shown in, the delivery tubeis coupled to the delivery valveat a first end and a delivery adapterat a second end. The delivery adaptermay be any suitable adapter (e.g., quick connect, male threaded, female threaded, union, etc.) configured to selectively couple/de-couple the delivery tubeto the chamber, the delivery manifold, and/or another component of the NPD system. In this regard, the delivery tubeand the delivery adaptermay be configured to facilitate movement of fluid and/or nutrient solution from the delivery valveto the chamber(e.g., for testing, etc.), the delivery manifold(e.g., for delivery to a plant and/or vegetation, etc.), and/or other components of the NPD system.

As an illustrative example, the components of the NPD systemof at leastmay be used to prepare and mix a nutrient solution. According to an exemplary embodiment, the reservoiris configured to receive a fluid (e.g., water, solvent, a fluid having predetermined characteristics, for example pre-adjusted pH levels, etc.). For example, the reservoirmay receive a fluid by removing the lid(e.g., as shown in at least), and the fluid may be added to the reservoir. Alternatively, or in addition, the measuring devicemay receive the fluid (e.g., via the funnel, the measuring base, etc.), and the measuring devicemay provide the fluid to the reservoir(e.g., by manipulating the measuring valveto an open configuration, via the measuring tube, the deliverer, etc.). In some embodiments, the reservoirmay receive the fluid via another suitable configuration (e.g., via an aperture in the lid, the chamber, an external fluid source, a fluid reservoir, etc.). An appropriate amount of fluid to be received by the reservoirmay be indicated by the first fill linesand/or the second fill lines, and/or measuring lines on the measuring device(e.g., the measuring base).

After the reservoirreceives the appropriate amount of fluid, the measuring devicemay receive a nutrient. For example, the funnelmay receive the nutrient, and facilitate movement of the nutrient into the measuring base. The measuring valvemay be in a closed configuration, so as to prevent movement of the nutrient to other components of the NPD system(e.g., the measuring tube, the reservoir, etc.). In this regard, the nutrient may be housed in the measuring baseuntil an appropriate (e.g., desired, preferred, predetermined, etc.) time. As discussed above, the appropriate amount of nutrient may be indicated by a measuring line on the measuring base.

Also, after the reservoirreceives the appropriate amount of fluid, the fluid may be moved (e.g., circulated, pumped, etc.) through components of the NPD system. The power connectormay be coupled to a power source, and the pumpmay be activated (e.g., turned on, etc.). This may cause fluid at the bottom of the reservoirto move (e.g., be pumped via the pump) through the pump tubetoward the junction. In an exemplary embodiment, the reservoir valveis in an open configuration, and the other valves (e.g., the rinse valve, the delivery valve, etc.) are in a closed configuration. As the fluid moves through the pump tubeand/or the junction, the fluid moves into the control tubing, through the reservoir valve, and back into the reservoir. In an exemplary embodiment, the reservoir valvemay be configured (e.g., in an open configuration) so as to allow the fluid to recirculate from the pumpback to the reservoirfor additional mixing (e.g., through the pump tube, the junction,, the reservoir valve, the reservoir tube, etc.). According to an exemplary embodiment, the reservoir valveis configured (e.g., in an open configuration) so as to permit fluid to flow through components of the NPD systemin order to reduce stress on components of the NPD system(e.g., pressure buildup on tubes and/or fittings, pressure buildup in the pump, etc.). In this regard, the reservoir valvemay be configured (e.g., in an open configuration) so as reduce stress on components of the NPD system(e.g., pressure buildup in the pumpwhen various valves are in a closed configuration, pressure buildup in the tubes and/or fittings when various valves are in a closed configuration, etc.) throughout the various processes described herein.

Once the measuring devicereceives the appropriate amount of nutrient, and the fluid is moved through the components of the NPD system, the measuring devicemay provide the nutrient to the reservoir. For example, the measuring valvemay be manipulated into an open configuration (e.g., manually, automatically, etc.), causing the nutrient to pass from the measuring base(i.e., through the measuring valve), through the measuring tube, and to the reservoir(e.g., via the aperture). In some embodiments, the nutrient passes from the measuring base, through the measuring tube, and through the delivererto the reservoir(e.g., via the aperture).

According to an exemplary embodiment, once the nutrient is provided to the reservoir, the measuring devicemay be rinsed (e.g., cleaned), so as to remove any excess nutrient from the components of the measuring deviceand provide a more precise nutrient delivery (e.g., to avoid precipitate formation, prevent melding of concentrates and solution suspension, to avoid interactions that cause nutrient lock-out, etc.). For example, after the nutrient is provided to the reservoir, the rinse valvemay be manipulated into an open configuration (e.g., manually, automatically, etc.). This may cause the fluid in the control tubingand/or the rinse tubeto move (e.g., via the pump) toward an end of the rinse tube. As the fluid leaves the end of the rinse tube, the fluid may enter components of the measuring device(e.g., the funnel, the measuring base, etc.). The measuring valvemay remain in an open configuration, so as to permit the fluid from the rinse tubeto move through components of the measuring device(e.g., the measuring base, the measuring tube, etc.), and back to the reservoir. In this regard, as the fluid moves through the measuring device, the fluid may remove any excess nutrient that remains in the measuring device(e.g., for a more precise nutrient amount in the reservoir, to avoid precipitate formation, etc.). In some embodiments, the reservoir valveis manipulated (e.g., to a partially open configuration, a partially closed configuration, etc.), so as to increase the fluid flow (e.g., via increased pressure, etc.) to the rinse tubeand/or the measuring devicefor more effective rinsing. According to an exemplary embodiment, once all excess nutrient is removed from the measuring device(e.g., rinsed and/or provided to the reservoir, etc.), the rinse valvemay be manipulated into a closed configuration (e.g., with the reservoir valvein an open configuration), such that the fluid and the nutrient concentrates may be mixed, as discussed herein. Similarly, the measuring valvemay also be manipulated into a closed configuration (e.g., manually, automatically, etc.), for example in preparation for receiving another and/or additional fluid and/or nutrient at the measuring device(e.g., for addition of another nutrient).

After the reservoirreceives the fluid and the nutrient, components of the NPD systemmay mix (e.g., amalgamate, aerate, move, stir, etc.) the fluid and the nutrient to form a nutrient solution. According to an exemplary embodiment, the mixeris manipulated to mix the fluid and the nutrient to form the nutrient solution, as discussed in further detail with regard to. In some embodiments, the pumpis activated and components of the NPD systemare manipulated to mix the fluid and the nutrient to form the nutrient solution. For example, after the fluid and the nutrient are provided to the reservoir, the reservoir valvemay be in an open configuration, with the rinse valve, the delivery valve, etc. manipulated into a closed configuration. In addition, after the fluid and the nutrient are provided (and the pumpis activated), the pumpmay be configured to circulate the fluid and/or the nutrient within the reservoir. In this regard, as the pumpmoves fluid/nutrient at the bottom of the reservoirthrough the pump tubetoward the junction, the fluid/nutrient may move through the junctionto the control tubing, through the control tubingto the reservoir valve, and through the reservoir valveto the reservoir tube. The reservoir tubemay further move the fluid/nutrient to the reservoir(e.g., via an aperture in the reservoir, etc.), so as to mix the fluid/nutrient in the reservoir, as discussed herein.

In some embodiments, the components of the NPD systemare configured to mix (e.g., amalgamate, aerate, move, stir, etc.) the fluid and the nutrient to form a nutrient solution, and/or rinse the measuring devicein sequence, simultaneously, and/or a combination thereof. For example, after the fluid and the nutrient are provided to the reservoir(e.g., with the reservoir valvein an open configuration), the pumpmay move fluid from the bottom of the reservoir, through the pump tube, the junction, the control tubing, the reservoir valve, the reservoir tube, and back to the reservoirfor mixing (e.g., recirculating), as discussed above. Further, the rinse valvemay be manipulated (e.g., manually, automatically, etc.) into an open configuration and the measuring valvemay be manipulated into a closed configuration. In this regard, the pumpmay move fluid from the bottom of the reservoir, through the rinse tube, and to components of the measuring device(e.g., the funnel, the measuring base, etc.). With the measuring valvein a closed configuration, the measuring device(e.g., the funnel, the measuring base, etc.) may fill with fluid (e.g., so as to rinse components of the measuring device). Once the measuring deviceis filled with fluid, the measuring valvemay be manipulated (e.g., manually, automatically, etc.) into an open configuration, so as to allow the fluid to flow back to the reservoir, as discussed above. In some embodiments, the measuring valveis then manipulated back into a closed configuration, for example in preparation for addition of another nutrient concentrate. In this regard, components of the NPD systemmay allow for measuring, mixing, and/or rinsing simultaneously, in sequence, and/or any combination thereof.

As will be discussed in further detail below with regard to, once the fluid and the nutrient are mixed to form the nutrient solution, the nutrient solution may be moved (e.g., pumped, etc.) from the reservoirto other components of the NPD system. For example, once the nutrient solution is mixed, the delivery valvemay be manipulated into an open configuration (e.g., manually, automatically, etc.). In this regard, as the pumpmoves the nutrient solution at the bottom of the reservoirthrough the pump tubetoward the junction, the nutrient solution may move through the junction, the control tubing, the delivery valve, the delivery tube, and to the delivery adapter. In an exemplary embodiment, and as discussed with regard to, the delivery adapteris coupled to the chamber, and the nutrient solution moves through the delivery adapterand to the chamber(e.g., for testing, balancing, etc.). In another exemplary embodiment, and as discussed with regard to, the delivery adapteris coupled to the delivery manifold, and a balanced nutrient solution moves through the delivery adapterand to the delivery manifold(e.g., for delivery to a plant, a vegetation, etc.).

Referring now to, a mixer is shown, according to an exemplary embodiment. In an exemplary embodiment, the mixer is the mixerof the NPD systemof. As shown in at least, the mixerincludes a support base (e.g., shown as rod), a manipulator (e.g., shown as handle), a mixing interface (e.g., shown as paddle), a base (e.g., shown as mixer housing), an actuator (e.g., shown as spring), and a protective layer (e.g., shown as sleeve). In some embodiments, the mixerincludes additional, fewer, and/or different working components, which are configured to mix (e.g., amalgamate, aerate, stir, move, etc.) fluid and/or nutrient within the reservoir.

As shown in, the mixeris coupled to the lidand positioned within the reservoir, and is configured to be manipulated so as to selectively mix a fluid and/or a nutrient within the reservoir. According to an exemplary embodiment, the rodis coupled to the handleat a first end and the paddleat a second end, and is configured to extend in a substantially vertical direction (i.e., through the lidand) within the reservoir. In this regard, the rodmay be oriented so as to position the handleoutside the reservoir, and the paddlewithin the reservoir. In an exemplary embodiment, the rodis oriented/positioned such that at least a portion of the paddle(e.g., a top portion, etc.) is exposed to air within the reservoir, as discussed below. The rodmay also be coupled to the mixer housing(and the spring) at a middle portion, such that the mixer housing(and the spring) is/are coupled to the lidand/or positioned outside the reservoir. The rod(and/or the mixer housing) may further be coupled to the lidso as to form a seal between the mixerand the lid, for example via the sleeve, a seal, a gasket, a coupler, and/or any other suitable coupling configuration. The seal may be a liquid-tight seal, an air-tight seal, a substantially liquid-tight seal, a substantially air-tight seal, and/or any other suitable type of seal. In some embodiments, the mixerand the lidare configured to substantially seal the reservoir(e.g., seal the reservoir, seal the reservoirexcept for a port in the reservoirfor introducing air into the reservoir, etc.). For example, the mixerand the lidmay seal the reservoirexcept for a port in the reservoir, which may be configured to allow introduction of air (e.g., via an air pump, an accordion foot pump, etc.) into the reservoirso as to force (e.g., via buildup of pressure in the reservoir) the nutrient solution through components of the NPD system. According to an exemplary embodiment, the roda substantially cylindrical, elongated, uniform body; however, in some embodiments, the rodis another suitable shape and/or size, and/or includes a plurality of rod components that may be coupled/de-coupled to form the rod.

As shown in, the handleis coupled to an end of the rodand is configured to be manipulated so as to selectively reposition components of the mixer(e.g. the paddle). In an exemplary embodiment, the handleis configured to be manipulated in a substantially vertical direction (e.g., up/down, etc.), so as to reposition the paddlevertically relative to the lidand/or the reservoir. The handlemay be formed of any suitable material (e.g., plastic, metal, etc.), and/or may be any suitable size. In an exemplary embodiment, the handleis manipulated manually (e.g., via a user, etc.). In some embodiments, the handleis manipulated automatically (e.g., via a driver, actuator, motor, gear driver, belt driver, timer, sensor, etc.), and/or is manipulated in another suitable direction (e.g., rotationally about a vertical axis, vertically and rotationally, at an angle, along a pendulum-like path, and/or any combination thereof, etc.).